Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Brian Eric MacDonald

It is with heavy hearts, the MacDonald family grieves to announce the death of Brian Eric MacDonald of Ottawa, Ont. on July 29th, 2025. Born in Mulgrave NS on August 14th, 1952, he was a son of the late Hugh (Sonny) and Teresa (Ryan) MacDonald formerly of Brook St. Ext., North Sydney, N.S.

Brian was a graduate of both St Joseph’s School & Thompson High School, North Sydney. After high school, he joined the Canadian Armed Forces. He began his post-secondary studies at Royal Roads Military College in Victoria B.C. and went on to complete an undergraduate degree at the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario. He attended the Canadian Forces Staff College in Toronto and pursued additional studies at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in Sandhurst, Berkshire, England.

Brian enjoyed a remarkable thirty-year military career (RCEME). A natural leader, he was well respected among the ranks. He had exceptional communication skills and was known as a very approachable, congenial individual. Throughout his tenure, he was posted to Halifax, N.S.; Larh, Germany; Sandhurst, England; Oromocto, N.B., Borden and Ottawa, Ont.

 After his retirement from the military, Brian began a second career with “Pennant International Group” which spanned two decades. Sales and Marketing management was a good fit for such a forthright, disciplined individual. After retiring as “Chief Operating Officer Pennant Canada LTD” he was retained as a consultant for a number of years.

Brian was well read; he was a history buff and kept abreast of current affairs. He appreciated casual conversation, sharing anecdotes and laughter over drinks and a nice meal. His quick wit and great sense of humor were always entertaining.

An avid hockey fan, Brian enjoyed playing well into his forties. Living in Ottawa, he was a “Sens Fan”, a season ticket holder. In recent years, one of “Papa’s” greatest joys was watching his eldest granddaughter Ariel playing hockey.  Brian was a golf enthusiast, a member of the Ottawa Hunt and Golf Club. 

Brian had a strong sense of family; he was a devoted husband and father. Maintaining close ties with his extended family, he often returned to Nova Scotia for family gatherings.

 He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Judy (White) MacDonald; his sons Jonathan and Christopher (Maddie); granddaughters Ariel, Indie and Rue, all of Ottawa. Also surviving are his extended family:  sister Jacinta (Dale) Archibald, Antigonish; brothers Bill, Halifax, Michael (April), North Sydney, Brent (Jennifer), Dartmouth, and sister-in-law Miriam MacDonald, Hoyt, NB, as well as several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by brothers: David (09/21/17) and Robert (12/18/19). Cremation has taken place.  A family committal service and “Celebration of Life” will be held in North Sydney on September 20th, 2025. 

“Arte et Marte”

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